It’s All Saints’ Day
ROMAN Catholics and other Christians in various parts of the world celebrate “All Saints’ Day” today, November 1.
On this day, these Christians troop to public and private cemeteries to visit the graves of their departed relatives, friends, neighbors and other acquaintances.
Before proceeding to cemeteries and other resting places of the dead, many Filipinos, particularly the elderly, usually go to church to offer prayers.
In fact, in some provinces, many relatives now living or working in the Metropolitan Manila area and other places make it a point to return home a few days before “Undas.”
“Sa mga sementeryo na nila ginagawa ang family reunion. Nagdadala na sila ng pagkain na pagsasaluhan pagdating ng tanghalian at hapunan,” said an elderly cemetery caretaker.
“Ang iba pa nga ay nagpapaumaga na lang sa mga sementaryo at memorial park para huwag na silang bumalik kinabukasan (November 2) para sa “All Souls’ Day” celebration,” he added.
Under the Roman Catholic Church calendar, “All Saints’ Day” and “All Souls’ Day” are occasions for remembering and honoring the dead and the church’s saints.
However, in visiting cemeteries and memorial parks, never bring deadly weapons, such as firearms, loud speakers, intoxicating drinks and gambling paraphernalia, according to the authorities.
In the view of many quarters, including the younger generation of Filipinos, today’s celebration should not end with the lighting of candles at the tomb of the dead.
More importantly, let’s remember the many sacrifices of our departed loved ones “para lang tayo lumigaya.”
